FOLLOWING recent registration with Ofsted, the preschools in Chulmleigh, East Worlington and Lapford have joined together under the umbrella of CAT Preschools Ltd.

The preschools say they are really excited by this development which will allow them to build on the wonderful work the preschools have already done individually, while removing the burden of responsibility of parents to run each committee.

Parents of young children have historically taken on the responsibility for complying with the legalities of running preschool committees as well as managing the finances, employment and more recently staff pensions.

Now the preschools that form CAT Preschools, a charitable organisation, and a subsidiary company of Chulmleigh Academy Trust, are run by a board of directors rather than parents.

By pooling resources, good practice and ideas CAT Preschools Ltd says it will be able to provide the children with excellent opportunities to develop and grow as they begin their journey through education.

A spokesperson said: “We have been delighted that our good reputation goes before us and preschools outside of the Trust have approached us to join CAT Preschools.

“Each of the preschools have a strong ethos of making learning fun, exercising the children’s imagination to the full and often getting thoroughly messy to boot!

“With environmental areas in each setting, children are able to access the outside and learn about the world around them. For those who still need a little rest during the day, there are ‘cosy caves’ and quiet corners.

“East Worlington and Chulmleigh operate as Partnership Foundation Stage Units, (where a preschool is integrated with Reception, enabling a free-flow of activities) while children at Lapford preschool, are still in their own dedicated space, but play regularly with the Reception children at the school.

“This means that for each of these preschool children, transition to Primary school is a seamless experience for them, and learning can happen at stage not age, giving children the confidence to make these first steps in their school careers.

“We are now delighted to be able to offer provision at Burrington Primary School for two to five-year-olds which will also operate as a Partnership Foundation Stage Unit.

“Places are available at all these preschools and we operate an open door policy, welcoming visitors who would like to know more about us.”

More information is available from Lully Newman or Gina Randall on 01769 580535 or email” [email protected] or: [email protected] .

Alan Quick